Location
Lower Aylescott sits in a beautiful, tranquil countryside setting just outside the picturesque North Devon village of West Down.
Just a short drive from the cottages are the popular seaside villages of Woolacombe and Croyde, both of which are home to gorgeous beaches, perfect for swimming, relaxing and water-sports.
Braunton is also nearby and has several excellent places to eat, as well as some great independent shops, the Paint a Pot store is ideal for children on a rainy day. Alternatively, Ilfracombe, where you will find Damien Hirst’s statue ‘Verity’ is less than a 15-minute drive.
If you would prefer to discover North Devon on foot, the South West Coast Path is easily accessed and is a great way to see some of the local scenery and wildlife. The Tarka Trail is another way to see the area, and is suitable for both walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities. Read our holiday guide to Devon for more information on things to do in the area.
Please see below for a few of our favourite places to visit in the local area, along with details of some of the nearby pubs and restaurants.
ADDRESS
Lower Aylescott
West Down
Ilfracombe
EX34 8NJ
Days Out
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway www.lynton-rail.co.uk
Step on board a vintage steam train and ride along some of the original Lynton to Barnstaple railway line.
Arlington Court www.nationaltrust.org.uk
An elegant regency house with extensive grounds and a carriage museum. Perfect for all the family.
RHS Rosemoor www.rhs.org.uk
Beautiful gardens in a 65-acre estate. Nestled in a pretty valley the gardens are open all year round and have a wonderful blend of formal and informal.
Broomhill Sculpture Gardens www.broomhillart.co.uk
A stunning exhibition of art scattered strategically around the extensive gardens make Broomhill a wonderful place to visit.
Marwood Hill Gardens www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk
A private 20-acre estate just outside Barnstaple home to a gorgeous garden with tea rooms and three lakes.
Tapley Park www.christieestates.co.uk
Tapley Park has been home to the Christie Family for more than two centuries. The house is surround by gorgeous gardens and has its own tea rooms.
Dartington Crystal www.dartington.co.uk
The UK’s last glass factory offers a unique and fascinating insight into the magical world of glass blowing. Activities available for all ages.
Castle Hill Estate www.castlehilldevon.co.uk
Surrounded by stunning countryside, Castle Hill is a magical place to visit with pretty gardens providing an excellent setting for a picnic.
Exmoor National Park www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
The stunning Exmoor National Park is home to some of the areas most loved wildlife, including the Exmoor Pony and Red Deer. Combine your visit with a trip to one of the many local tea rooms or cosy pubs.
For the kids
Watermouth Castle www.watermouthcastle.com
The fun filled Watermouth Castle is a great theme park for all the family with rides and attractions, an a wonderful light show in the castle dungeons.
Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park www.wildlifedinosaurpark.co.uk
Set over 28 acres, the park is home to some amazing wildlife, including wolves and lions, as well as some life size animatronic dinosaurs.
Ilfracombe Aquarium ilfracombeaquarium.co.uk
The award-winning aquarium is located at Ilfracombe’s historic harbour and provides a wonderful insight to what lives under the sea around the North Devon coastline.
Exmoor Zoo www.exmoorzoo.co.uk
A wonderful place to visit to see some of the world’s rarest creatures, including the famous Exmoor Beast!
The Big Sheep www.thebigsheep.co.uk
One of Devon’s most popular attractions with rides, a soft player area, and of course several sheep, as well as other farm animals!
The Milky Way www.themilkyway.co.uk
There really is something for everyone at The Milky Way, including an indoor play area and several rides, such as the Cosmic Typhoon roller coaster.
Tunnels Beach www.tunnelsbeaches.co.uk
Sit back and relax at The Tunnels in Ilfracombe where there is a tidal pool, a soft play area and some excellent rock pools to discover.
Quince Honey Farm www.quincehoneyfarm.co.uk
Discover the world of bees at Quince Honey Farm in South Molton, where there is also an indoor play area, Critters Cabin and an excellent shop for picking up souvenirs.
Keypitts Off Road Adventures www.keypitts.com
Have fun riding quad bikes at Keypitts near Ilfracombe, where you can also have a 4x4 Land Rover Experience and play battle zone archery.
Places to eat
The Crown Inn, West Down www.crowninnwestdown.co.uk
A family friendly pub with a laid-back atmosphere and varied menu.
The Pyne Arms, East Down www.pynearms.co.uk
A traditional country pub offering locally sourced food with a modern twist.
SQ Bar and Restaurant, Braunton www.sqdining.uk
One of North’s Devon premier bars and restaurants with food served breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Thomas Carr @The Olive Room, Ilfracombe www.thomascarrchef.co.uk
A Michelin star restaurant, which prides itself of providing quality food in a comfy environment.
The Red Barn, Woolacombe www.redbarnwoolacombe.co.uk
A great place for all the family to eat after a day on the beach. The pub serves comfort food and real ales.
Squires Fish and Chips, Braunton www.squiresfishrestaurant.co.uk
Award winning fish and chips restaurant with some famous customers!
The Thatch, Croyde www.thethatchcroyde.com
Local ales and freshly cooked food make The Thatch a popular place to eat when visiting North Devon.
The Grampus Inn, Lee Bay www.thegrampus-inn.co.uk
A classic village pub set in a beautiful location. Ideal for family meals.
The Rock, Georgeham therockinn.biz
A 17th century pub boasting five cask marque real ales, an extensive wine list and fresh, locally sourced food.